The Caribbean is a treasure trove of vibrant cultures, historical towns and crystal-clear waters, making it the ideal destination for a tropical cruise. Windstar Cruises offers over three dozen itineraries to numerous islands in the Caribbean, along with ports on the Caribbean side of Central America.
These are some of the most exciting and unique shore excursions available on Windstar’s Caribbean itineraries:
Powerboat & Snorkeling at the Sculptures Park (St. Georges, Grenada)
Recognized as one of the Top 25 Wonders of the World by National Geographic, this snorkel destination is unlike anything else in the Caribbean. Your tour begins along Grenada’s western coast on a twin-engine powerboat, and you’ll learn about the island’s rich history, ecology and unique geography. You’ll then have nearly an hour to explore the world-famous Molinere Bay Underwater Sculpture Park, which is in the Molinere-Beauséjour Marine Reserve. This park was the first of artist Jason deCaires Taylor’s underwater gardens, erected in 2006 as a space for corals to regrow after Hurricane Ivan wreaked havoc on the region two years prior. There are now 75 pieces from several artists covering the 8,600-square-foot site, most of them made of pH-neutral cement to minimize the impact on the water, according to National Geographic.
This shore excursion is available on the following cruises: Windward Islands Surf & Sunsets, Jewels of the Windward Islands and Colombian & Southern Caribbean Coastlines.
Concierge Collection: Pilot Your Own Zodiac (Road Bay, Anguilla)
Admiring the beauty of Anguilla and its pristine beaches takes a thrilling twist when you become the captain of your own zodiac. As you set off on your aquatic expedition, you’ll follow your guide onto the open ocean, tracing the contours of the island’s picturesque coastline. Whether you’re seeking high-speed excitement, or you prefer a leisurely cruise to soak in the scenery, you set the pace. Navigating the ocean on your own personal watercraft also allows you to explore secluded beaches that are only accessible by boat. One such hidden gem is Little Bay, Anguilla’s smallest beach, where you’ll anchor and have the chance to snorkel.
There are booking options for singles and doubles, and this shore excursion is available on the Beach Fun & Sun: A Remote Caribbean Getaway and Star Collector: Caribbean Explorations cruises.
River Tubing Adventure (Roseau, Dominica)
For those who enjoy adventures on the water, this shore excursion is an absolute must. First, you’ll visit the Emerald Pool at Morne Trois Piton National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Emerald Pool is a natural oasis surrounded by lush tropical vegetation, and you’ll have the opportunity to swim here before heading to the Layou Valley. After a safety briefing and a gear check, you’ll launch your modified inner tube on the Layou River. As you float along with the current, you’ll experience the sensation of gently spinning and swirling while admiring the ever-changing landscapes. Along the way, there will be a break for swimming in the pristine crystal-clear waters, and when the tour concludes, you’ll be treated to refreshments and snacks.
This shore excursion is available on the Classic Caribbean and Windward Island Delights cruises.
Americas Cup Sailboat Racing (St. Maarten, St. Maarten)
Prepare for an exhilarating adventure as you sail the seas on a multi–million-dollar America’s Cup racing boat. No previous sailing experience is required, making this one of the Caribbean’s top-rated tourist activities. Your excursion begins at the 12 Metre Clubhouse at Dock Maarten, and after a safety briefing, you’ll take a 10-minute tender ride to your designated sailboat. Options may include Dennis Conner’s America’s Cup-winning Stars & Stripes, Canada II or True North IV. The expert crew will show you the ropes, whether it’s grinding a winch, trimming a sail, or managing a stopwatch. However, if you’d like to move at a more relaxed pace, you can kick back while enjoying complimentary refreshments. Then it’s off to the racecourse, where you’ll immerse yourself in the world of competitive sailing. After the mock race, celebrate with a rum punch party back at the 12 Metre Clubhouse, and transportation to your hotel or the airport is also included.
This shore excursion is available on the following cruises: Beach Fun & Sun: A Remote Caribbean Getaway, Classic Caribbean, Windward Islands Surf & Sunsets and Star Collector: Caribbean Explorations.
Yellow Semi-Sub Exploration (Gustavia, Saint Barthélemy)
Experience the best of both worlds as you embark on a semi-submersible tour, offering a unique blend of breathtaking views and marine wildlife encounters. When you board, you will have the option of enjoying the sea breeze on the open deck, or you can venture into the tunnel-like hull, where windows provide a glimpse at the aquatic wonders below. Your trip begins at the harbor’s entrance, and you’ll want to keep an eye out for the green turtles that frequent this area. The semi-sub then glides over the sunken wreck of the Marignan freighter, and as you cross into the southeastern edge of the Marine Park, the sea comes alive with vibrant coral reefs and schools of fish.
This shore excursion is available on the Beach Fun & Sun: A Remote Caribbean Getaway and Classic Caribbean cruises.
Highlights & Bath Tour (Virgin Gorda, British Virgin Islands)
Experience Virgin Gorda’s famous natural wonders with an unforgettable tour of the island. First, you’ll marvel at the views from Gorda Peak, which offers a stunning perspective of the British Virgin Islands, and then you’ll descend to the coast to explore the massive granite boulders of the Baths. These otherworldly rock formations sit among the white sands and crystal-clear waters, creating a stunning landscape. You’ll have the chance to walk through the caves and crevices, which are home to a number of pools and grottoes. After wandering through the boulders, you’ll connect with a footpath and reach the pristine sands of Devil’s Bay. There is also a less strenuous path to Devil’s Bay, and plenty of spots to grab a drink or snack.
This shore excursion is available on the following cruises: Beach Fun & Sun: A Remote Caribbean Getaway, Classic Caribbean, San Juan & the Virgin Islands and Star Collector: Caribbean Explorations.
Grand Eden Estate Bird Sanctuary Hiking Trail and Farm (Soufriere, St. Lucia)
The hiking trails on St. Lucia are a nature lover’s dream come true, offering breathtaking views of the Pitons, a pair of volcanic mountains covered in lush vegetation. Upon your arrival at the Grand Eden Estate, you will meet your guide and learn all about the flora and fauna on the island. In addition to vistas of the iconic Pitons, you’ll also have a view of Mount Gimmie, the island’s tallest peak. Your tour continues at the farm, where you’ll have the chance to sample freshly picked fruit and juices, while learning more about the planting methods used on the estate.
This shore excursion is available on the Windward Ways & Tobago Cays and Star Collector: Captivating Caribbean cruises.
Tobago Cocoa Discovery (Man-O-War Bay, Tobago)
Explore the lush wonders of Tobago’s rainforest with a half-day shore excursion that will delight your senses. Your journey begins with a scenic drive along Tobago’s Windward Coast to the Main Ridge Forest Reserve, which is the oldest established reserve in the Western Hemisphere. You’ll then travel to the Cocoa Estate, which is famous for producing top-quality cocoa for world-class chocolate products. After learning about the estate’s operations and the cultivation process, take a walk through the cocoa trees, and you’ll then get the opportunity to sample freshly brewed cocoa tea and delectable chocolate bars. On the way back to port, enjoy a brief stop at the Speyside Lookout to take in panoramic vistas and marvel at the Speyside Waterwheel.
This shore excursion is available on the following cruises: Windward Ways & Tobago Cays, Star Collector: White Sands of the Windwards and Star Collector: The Best of the Windward & Leeward Isles.
Island History & Rum Tasting (Basseterre, St. Kitts)
Immerse yourself in the rich history and flavors of St. Kitts, one of the oldest towns in the Eastern Caribbean. Your tour begins with a narrated drive through the charming streets of Basseterre, where you’ll see Victorian and Georgian-style architecture, along with monuments like Independence Square, which was once a former slave market. Next, you’ll visit the recently restored Fairview Great House & Botanical Garden. This magnificent estate, believed to have been constructed in 1701 by the French, offers a guided tour of the interior, and you’ll also delve into the fascinating history of rum, learning about the Caribbean’s role in rum production as you sample several kinds of rum. Following your tasting, meander through the two-and-a-half-acre Botanical Garden, a tranquil oasis of lush greenery and exotic plants.
This shore excursion is available on the following cruises: Classic Caribbean, Star Collector: Caribbean Explorations, Lush & Lovely Islands of the Lesser Antilles and Boston Sights, Warm Caribbean Nights.
Please note: Shore excursions are often subject to availability, so please call your travel advisor or contact Windstar Cruises for the latest shore excursions on each voyage.
